What You Need to Know About Building an In-Ground Garden

Creating an in-ground garden is easy since it uses the space - and soil - you already have as the base. In-ground gardens tend to be less expensive too, since they require fewer building materials compared to a raised garden bed.

If you've considered creating a garden in your backyard these tips can help you get started picking, preparing and planting in the perfect spot.

1. Decide what you want to plant. The size and placement of your garden largely depends on what you want to grow. Most vegetables grow well in a sunlit spot with plenty of room to spread out. But if you're growing a flower bed, you may need a shadier, smaller location. Whether you're growing vegetables or flowers, you might want to start small with your plot ' it's always easier to add to your garden instead of trying to replant grass.

2. Look over your yard for potential gardening locations. The best garden locations tend to be areas that are slightly elevated, so they don't retain too much water and become soggy. A good clue the area might be good for gardening is that either grass or shrubbery is already growing well there.

3. Dig up your garden spot. To prepare your in-ground garden, start by pulling out any existing plants or grass. Use a tiller like the Horse' Garden Tiller that can break new ground or prepare existing soil, going down several inches. Carefully haul away rocks, remove roots and any other debris you encounter while tilling.

4. Cover your garden plot with compost or manure. Ask at your local gardening store for recommended soil enhancements for your area, such as certain types of fertilizer.

5. Plot out your garden before planting. Lay out the potted plants or seed containers where you plan to put them before digging into the soil. Make adjustments based on the suggestions on the plant tags. Leave plenty of room between plants so they have room to grow.

6. Define your garden space. Once you're done planting, mulch the area. Mulch discourages weeds from growing and holds moisture in the soil. Add decorative rocks, stones or other elements along the garden's perimeter to distinguish the area from the rest of your yard.